A low-key protest returned to Paihia waterfront today, aiming to raise awareness of the dispute between tour operators and the owners of Motu Kokako, the island famous for the Hole in the Rock.
Ten members of Motu Kokako Ahuwhenua Trust talked to passers-by and handed out pamphlets explaining their position. The trust believes commercial boat operators passing through the Hole in the Rock should pay a fee, in the same way companies pay a concession to cross private or conservation land.
Today's protest started at 8:30am, in time for the first cruise at 9am, and ended at midday.
Trust chairman Rau Hoskins said the focus was education, not protesting, and the reaction from the public had been positive.
"When people are on holiday mode they're more receptive to information than placards and megaphones," he said.
